During the exploration and development stages, understanding the subsurface geometry, incorporating both structural and stratigraphic framework, and characterization of the reservoir is essential to understanding the 4D development of petroleum system. The seismic and well log datasets represent the cornerstone of information extraction in oil and gas exploration/development, and it becomes critical that these datasets are properly integrated. In addition, integration of core (whole or sidewall), cuttings, and formation test data (LWD, wireline, pressure transient, etc.) allows for additional constraining of critical components for reservoir evaluation and characterizations. We focus here on the fundamental principles and methodologies of accurately extracting critical data and information transfer.

This course is practically based, including integrating multiple datasets, quick-look and advanced techniques for critically analyzing/reviewing key calculations and maps (including your own and those of others), and benefits/drawbacks of modern computing. No one dataset provides the “ground truth” but rather when properly used can help constrain an interpretation, be it exploratory subsurface mapping to detailed reservoir characterization.

Micropaleontology and nannopaleontology – Extraction of micro- and nannofossils from mud cuttings, major types, including foraminifera, conodonts, etc., and biostratigraphic analysis.

Real-time formation evaluation – lithologic typing and stratigraphic determination, and biosteering and chemosteering operations as an additional constraint or even alternative to log-based steering operations.